Blast Attenuation Device For Absorbing Force Between An Occupant And A Vehicle

ABSTRACT

A device for a vehicle supports an occupant of the vehicle and absorbs a force between the occupant and the vehicle created by relative movement between the occupant and the vehicle. The device includes a pan for supporting the occupant. A first energy absorbing device is coupled to the pan and configured to absorb at least a portion of the force when a magnitude of the force reaches a first magnitude. A second energy absorbing device supports the first energy absorbing device and is configured to absorb at least a portion of the force when the magnitude of the force reaches a second magnitude greater than the first magnitude. A third energy absorbing device supports the second energy absorbing device and is configured to absorb at least a portion of the force when the force reaches a third magnitude greater than the second magnitude.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The subject patent application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 13/077,423 filed on Mar. 31, 2013, which claimspriority to and all the benefits of U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/341,470 filed on Mar. 31, 2010, the entire specifications ofwhich are expressly incorporated herein by reference. The subject patentapplication also claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/797,104 filed on Nov. 29, 2012, the entire specification of whichis expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a device for supporting an occupant ofa vehicle and absorbing a force between the occupant and the vehiclecreated by relative movement between the occupant and the vehicle

2. Description of the Related Art

Vehicles are widely used for military purposes, especially in recentmilitary conflicts, to transfer soldiers, to enter combat areas, topatrol areas, etc. Such vehicles can be exposed to blasts resulting froman explosive such as an improvised explosive device, a mine, a grenade,etc. Forces from such blasts are transferred through the vehicle to theoccupants. The vibration and/or reverberation of the blast through thevehicle can injure the occupants.

These vehicles can be armored to shield the occupants from such blastsbut the armor of the armored vehicle is designed to remain rigid duringa blast to deflect the blast and preserve the structural integrity ofthe vehicle, or at least the portion of the vehicle housing occupants.Unlike civilian automobiles that are designed to crush to absorb forcesresulting from an automobile crash, the armor on the armored vehicle,due to its rigidity, does not crush and thus does not absorb forcesresulting from the blast. As such, although the armor protects theoccupants by maintaining structural rigidity of the vehicle, the blastvibrates and/or reverberates through the vehicle because the armor doesnot deform to absorb the energy of the blast. This vibration and/orreverberation through the vehicle can injure the occupant. For example,if the blast originates below the vehicle, the blast can vibrate and/orreverberate through the floor of the vehicle. In such a scenario, theoccupant can be harmed if this vibration and/or reverberation istransferred directly to the occupant through the floor and/or the devicethat the occupant sits or stands on, e.g., a seat or platform.

Further, whether the vehicle is armored or not, much of the technologyfor absorbing energy in a civilian automobile during an automobileaccident is not suitable for absorbing energy from an explosive blast.As one example, conventional civilian automobiles are equipped withairbags that inflate upon crash of the automobile. The airbag caninflate within 5 milliseconds. Due to the speeds of typical civilianautomobile accidents and/or due to the crushing of the automobile toabsorb energy, the immediate need for inflation of the airbag is notnecessary and the 5 millisecond delay is acceptable. In other words, ina civilian automobile accident, the inflation of the airbag is notneeded earlier than 5 milliseconds after the crash. However, in the caseof an explosive blast, the magnitude of the blast can be such that theforces of the blast are almost instantaneously transferred to theoccupant, i.e., forces that can harm the occupant are transferredthrough the armored vehicle in less than 5 milliseconds. Further, in thecase of an armored vehicle, for example, the armor is relatively rigidand does not absorb much, if any, forces. As such, much or all of theforce resulting from the blast is transferred virtually instantaneouslythrough the vehicle to the occupant. As such, the airbags used incivilian automobiles cannot react quickly enough due to the 5millisecond delay associated with the civilian automobile airbags.

In addition to generating initial forces acting on the vehicle, theblast can also cause the vehicle to become airborne. The occupant cansuffer injuries relating to the landing of the vehicle on the ground,i.e., the “slam down.”

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION AND ADVANTAGES

The present invention includes a device for a vehicle to support anoccupant of the vehicle and absorb a force between the occupant and thevehicle created by relative movement between the occupant and thevehicle. The device comprises a pan for supporting the occupant. A firstenergy absorbing device is coupled to the pan and is configured toabsorb at least a portion of the force when a magnitude of the forcereaches a first magnitude. A second energy absorbing device isconfigured to absorb at least a portion of the force when the magnitudeof the force reaches a second magnitude greater than the firstmagnitude. The second energy absorbing device supports the first energyabsorbing device so that the first energy absorbing device transmits aportion of the force to the second energy absorbing device when themagnitude of the force reaches the second magnitude. A third energyabsorbing device supports the second energy absorbing device and isconfigured to absorb at least a portion of the force when the forcereaches a third magnitude greater than the second magnitude. The thirdenergy absorbing device is configured to plastically deform to absorb atleast a portion of the force when the force exceeds the third magnitude.

The first, second, and third energy absorbing devices increase theoverall range of forces that can be absorbed by the seat. In otherwords, the first energy absorbing device absorbs forces that are lowerthan forces absorbed by the second energy absorbing device and thesecond energy absorbing device absorbs forces that are higher thanforces absorbed by the first energy absorbing device. Similarly, thesecond energy absorbing device absorbs forces that are lower than forcesabsorbed by the third energy absorbing device and the third energyabsorbing device absorbs forces that are higher than forces absorbed bythe second energy absorbing device. Because the second energy absorbingdevice supports the first energy absorbing device, the second energyabsorbing device absorbs at least a portion of the force when the firstenergy absorbing device ceases to absorb the force. And because thethird energy absorbing device supports the first energy absorbingdevice, the third energy absorbing device absorbs at least a portion ofthe force when the second energy absorbing device ceases to absorb theforce. In addition, the first, second, and third energy absorbingdevices can be individually tuned or sized to increase the range offorces absorbed by the seat.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated,as the same becomes better understood by reference to the followingdetailed description when considered in connection with the accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle partially cut away to show aseat in the vehicle;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a portion of the seat;

FIG. 3 is a partially exploded view of a portion of the seat;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the seat;

FIG. 5A is a side view of a third energy absorbing device of the seatwhen no force or a force less than a third magnitude is applied to theseat;

FIG. 5B is a side view of the third energy absorbing device when a forceon the seat exceeds the third magnitude;

FIG. 6 is a sectional and partial cut-away view of the seat when a forceof a first magnitude is applied to the seat;

FIG. 7 is a sectional and partial cut-away view of the seat when a forceof a second magnitude is applied to the seat;

FIG. 8 is a sectional and partial cut-away view of the seat when a forceof the third magnitude is applied to the seat;

FIG. 9 is a partially exploded view of a seat of a second embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a vehicle partially cut away to show agunner platform in the vehicle;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the gunner platform;

FIG. 12 is a partially exploded view of the gunner platform;

FIG. 12A is a side view of a resilient member of the gunner platformshown in FIG. 12 to show the layered members of the resilient member;

FIG. 13 is a side view of the gunner platform at rest without forceapplied to the gunner platform;

FIG. 14 is a side view of the gunner platform when a force of a firstmagnitude is applied to the gunner platform;

FIG. 15 is a side view of the gunner platform when a force of a secondmagnitude is applied to the gunner platform;

FIG. 16 is a side view of the gunner platform when a force of a thirdmagnitude is applied to the gunner platform;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the gunnerplatform including another embodiment of the second energy absorbingdevice and another embodiment of a frame; and

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the gunnerplatform.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate like partsthroughout the several views, a blast attenuation device is showngenerally at 10, 210. In a first embodiment, shown in FIGS. 1-9, theblast attenuation device is a blast attenuation seat 10 and is referredto hereinafter as “the seat 10.” As shown in FIG. 1, the seat 10 ismounted in a vehicle 12 for supporting an occupant (not shown). A secondembodiment of the device is shown in FIGS. 10-18 in which the blastattenuation device is in the form of a platform 210 for supporting astanding occupant 15, as shown in FIG. 10. The standing occupant 15shown in FIG. 10 can operate a weapon or other equipment while thevehicle 12 is moving. Similar features that perform common functions inthe embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-8 and the embodiment of FIGS. 10-18 areidentified with common reference numerals. It should be appreciated thatfeatures of these various embodiments may be interchangeably used withthe other embodiments.

The seat 10 is typically mounted in a military vehicle but can also bemounted in a non-military vehicle such as, for example, a lawenforcement vehicle or a civilian vehicle. Whether the vehicle 12 is amilitary vehicle or otherwise, the vehicle 12 can be a land vehicle suchas, for example, an automobile, a tank, a bus, a train, etc.; a watervehicle such as, for example, a boat or a submarine; or an air vehiclesuch as, for example, an airplane or helicopter. Typical military usesof the seat 10 include, for example, armored vehicles and tanks.

The seat 10 supports the occupant of the vehicle 12 and absorbs a forcebetween the occupant and the vehicle 12 created by relative movementbetween the occupant and the vehicle 12. Specifically, the seat 10absorbs the force transmitted through the vehicle 12 to the seat 10 froma blast that originates exterior to the vehicle 12 in order to minimizeforce exerted through the seat 10 to the occupant. The blast can becaused by, for example, an explosive such as an improvised explosivedevice, a mine, a grenade, etc. The blast can result from an explosivein or on the ground or in the air around the vehicle 12. As one example,the blast can result from the vehicle 12 moving over a buried explosive.As set forth further below, the blast can also cause the vehicle 12 tobecome airborne and/or flip sideways, forward, and/or rearward, in whichcase the seat 10 not only absorbs the force resulting from the initialblast but also absorbs additional forces resulting from the impact ofthe vehicle 12 on the ground. In any event, regardless of the locationof the explosive and the effect of the explosive on the vehicle 12, theseat 10 absorbs the force transmitted through the vehicle 12 to the seat10.

With reference to FIGS. 2-4, the seat 10 includes a seat bottom 14 and aseat back 16 extending upwardly from the seat bottom 14. The seat back16 includes a seat back frame 18 and the seat bottom 14 includes a seatbottom frame 20. Typically, the seat back frame 18 and the seat bottomframe 20 are formed of metal; however, it should be appreciated that theseat back frame 18 and the seat bottom frame 20 can be formed of anysuitable material to provide proper support 42 for the occupant.

With reference again to FIG. 1, the seat back 16 can include a seat backcushion 22 mounted to the seat back frame 18 and the seat bottom 14 caninclude a seat bottom cushion 24 mounted to the seat bottom frame 20.The seat back cushion 22 and seat bottom cushion 24 are only partiallyshown in FIG. 1 and are not shown in FIGS. 2-4 and 6-9 for illustrativepurposes. Specifically, the seat back cushion 22 and the seat bottomcushion 24 typically include foam (not shown) covered by fabric (notshown). The foam and fabric typically cover the seat back frame 18 andthe seat bottom frame 20. The foam and the fabric of the seat backcushion 22 can be the same type of material or a different type ofmaterial than the foam and the fabric of the seat bottom cushion 24.When the force is exerted by the blast through the vehicle 12 to theseat 10, the foam compresses between the occupant and the seat bottomframe 20 and/or the seat back frame 18 to absorb at least a portion ofthe force to reduce or eliminate the magnitude of the force delivered tothe occupant. The foam is typically resilient such that the foam returnsto a pre-blast configuration after absorbing the force from the blast.

With reference again to FIGS. 2-4, the seat bottom 14 includes a firstenergy absorbing device 26, a second energy absorbing device 28, and athird energy absorbing device 30. As set forth further below, the first26, second 28, and/or third 30 energy absorbing devices allow movementof at least one of the seat bottom 14 and the seat back 16 relative tothe vehicle 12 in response to the force of the blast and absorb at leasta portion of the force. The first 26, second 28, and third 30 energyabsorbing devices are active, i.e., instantaneously respond to force.The seat 10 is tunable in that the first 26, second 28, and third 30energy absorbing devices can each be designed so that, in combination,the first 26, second 28, and third 30 energy absorbing devices canabsorb energy over a large range of forces.

At least one of the seat bottom 14 and the seat back 16 includes thefirst energy absorbing device 26 for absorbing at least a portion of theforce of the blast when a magnitude of the force reaches a firstmagnitude F1. As shown in the FIGS. 2-4, both the seat bottom 14 and theseat back 16 include first energy absorbing devices 26. The first energyabsorbing device 26 of the seat back 16 and the seat bottom 14 istypically disposed beneath the seat back cushion 22 and the seat bottomcushion 24, respectively. In other words, the foam and fabric of theseat back cushion 22 and the seat bottom cushion 24 covers the firstenergy absorbing device of the seat bottom 14 and the seat back 16,respectively. As set forth above, the foam and fabric of the seat backcushion 22 and the seat bottom cushion 24 is not shown in the Figures inorder to show the other features of the seat 10.

At least one of the seat bottom 14 and the seat back 16 also typicallyincludes the second energy absorbing device 28 for absorbing at least aportion of the force of the blast when a magnitude of the force reachesa second magnitude F2 greater than the first magnitude F1 and a thirdenergy absorbing device 30 for absorbing for absorbing at least aportion of the force when a magnitude of the force exceeds a thirdmagnitude F3 greater than the second magnitude F2. As shown in FIGS.2-4, the seat bottom 14 includes the second energy absorbing device 28and the third energy absorbing device 30. It should be appreciated thatthe, while not shown in the Figures, the seat back 16 can include thesecond 28 and third 30 energy absorbing devices.

FIGS. 6-8 show the seat 10 reacting to the forces of the first magnitudeF1, second magnitude F2, and third magnitude F3, respectively. The first26, second 28, and third 30 energy absorbing devices can be designedsuch that the first magnitude F1, the second magnitude F2, and the thirdmagnitude F3 can have any numerical measurement or range of numericalmeasurements. For example, the first magnitude F1 of the force, i.e.,the magnitude that activates the first energy absorbing device 26, istypically between 15 and 100 G. The second magnitude F2 of the force,i.e., the magnitude that activates the second energy absorbing device28, is typically 100 and 300 G. The third magnitude F3 of the force,i.e., the magnitude that activates the third energy absorbing device 30,typically has a magnitude of between 300 and 550 G.

The first 26, second 28, and third 30 energy absorbing devices arearranged to function in series. In other words, the first 26, second 28,and third 30 energy absorbing devices 30 each respectively absorbprogressively larger forces. Said differently, if the force exceeds therange of the first energy absorbing device 26, the first energyabsorbing device 26 absorbs a portion of the force and transfers aportion of the force to the second energy absorbing device 28. Likewise,if the force exceeds the range of the second energy absorbing device 28,the first 26 and second 28 energy absorbing devices absorb a portion ofthe force and the second energy absorbing device 28 transfers a portionof the force to the third energy absorbing device 30.

The first energy absorbing device 26 is configured to absorb at least aportion of the force when the force reaches the first magnitude F1,i.e., during a blast, the first energy absorbing device 26 is activatedand absorbs at least a portion of the force when the force reaches thefirst magnitude F1. If, on the other hand, the force is smaller than thefirst magnitude F1, then the first energy absorbing device 26 remainsdeactivated and does not absorb any of the force. The first energyabsorbing device 26 can be loaded to a completely loaded state, in whichstate the first energy absorbing device 26 does not absorb additionalforce. Typically, the first energy absorbing device 26 reaches the fullyloaded state at a magnitude of the force at least as high as the secondmagnitude F2.

The second energy absorbing device 28 is configured to absorb at least aportion of the force when the magnitude of the force reaches the secondmagnitude F2. If the force exceeds the second magnitude F2 and the firstenergy absorbing device 26 reaches the completely loaded state, thesecond energy absorbing device 28 is activated and, in addition to theactivation of the first energy absorbing device 26, absorbs at least aportion of the force. If, on the other hand, the force remains smallerthan the second magnitude F2, then the second energy absorbing device 28remains deactivated and does not absorb any of the force. The secondenergy absorbing device 28 can be loaded to a completely loaded state,in which state the second energy absorbing device 28 does not absorbadditional force. Typically, the second energy absorbing device 28reaches the fully loaded state at a magnitude of the force at least ashigh as the third magnitude F3.

The third energy absorbing device 30 is configured to absorb at least aportion of the force when the force reaches the third magnitude F3. Ifthe force exceeds the third magnitude F3 and the second energy absorbingdevice 28 reaches the completely loaded state, the third energyabsorbing device 30 is activated and, in addition to the activation ofthe first 26 and second 28 energy absorbing devices, absorbs at least aportion of the force. If, on the other hand, the force remains smallerthan the third magnitude F3, then the third energy absorbing device 30remains deactivated and does not absorb any of the force.

With reference to FIGS. 2-4, the first energy absorbing device 26includes a frame, such as the seat bottom frame 20 or the seat backframe 18, and a pan 32 spaced from the frame 18, 20. The pan 32 istypically connected to the frame 18, 20 with at least two links 34 thatare each pivotally connected to the frame 18, 20 and the pan 32.Alternatively, the pan 32 can be moveably connected to the frame 18, 20in any suitable fashion.

With reference to FIG. 4, a first resilient member 36 is disposedbetween the frame 18, 20 and the pan 32 to urge the pan 32 away from theframe 18, 20. Specifically, any number of first resilient members 36 canbe disposed between the frame 18, 20 and the pan 32. The first resilientmember 36 can be, for example, a torsion spring, a coil spring, ahydraulic damper, a pneumatic damper, etc.

With reference to FIG. 6, the first resilient member 36 is designed tomaintain the pan 32 in position relative to the frame 18, 20 until theforce reaches the first magnitude F1. In other words, in the absence ofa force of the first magnitude F1, e.g., from a blast, the pan 32 doesnot move to support 42 the occupant without loading the first resilientmember 36, as shown in phantom lines in FIG. 6. When the force reachesor exceeds the first magnitude F1, the force overcomes the firstresilient member 36 and begins to load the first resilient member 36. Asthe force overcomes the first resilient member 36, the pan 32 movesrelative to the frame 18, 20, as shown in solid lines in FIG. 6.

The first energy absorbing device 26 resiliently moves when absorbing atleast a portion of the force. As such, as the force resides, the firstenergy absorbing device 26 returns to a pre-force position. In otherwords, the pan 32 and the first resilient member 36 return to a positionthat the pan 32 and the first resilient member 36 had before the forcewas applied, i.e., the position shown in phantom lines in FIG. 6.

With reference again to FIGS. 2-4, the second energy absorbing device 28includes a linkage 38 and a second resilient member 40 operativelycoupled to the linkage 38. The second resilient member 40 can be, forexample, a shock absorber including a cylinder and a pistontelescopically received in the cylinder. Such a shock absorber can be,for example, hydraulically or pneumatically operated. It should beappreciated that the second resilient member 40 can be of any suitabletype without departing from the nature of the present invention.

A support 42 is spaced from the seat bottom frame 20 and the secondenergy absorbing device 28 is coupled to the seat bottom frame 20 andthe support 42. Specifically, the linkage 38 is coupled to the frame 18,20 and the support 42 and a second resilient member 40 is operativelycoupled to the linkage 38. The seat 10 can include any number of secondenergy absorbing devices 28. For example, as shown in FIGS. 2-4, theseat 10 has two second energy absorbing devices 28.

With reference to FIG. 7, the linkage 38 includes a first pair of links44 and a second pair of links 46 with the second resilient member 40extending between the first pair of links 44 and the second pair oflinks 46. Each of the first 44 and second 46 pair of links includes anupper link 48 pivotally coupled to the seat bottom frame 20 and a lowerlink 50 pivotally coupled to the support 42. The upper 48 and lower 50links of the first pair of links 44 are pivotally coupled to each otherat a joint 52 and the upper 48 and lower 50 links of the second pair oflinks 46 are pivotally coupled to each other at a joint 54.

The linkages 38 of the two second energy absorbing devices 28 can beconnected to each other such that the second energy absorbing devices 28are arranged in parallel, as shown in the Figures, or in series (notshown). For example, the seat 10 can include upper cross members 56 thatconnect the upper links 48 of the second energy absorbing members 28together and lower cross members 58 that connect the lower links 50 ofthe second energy absorbing members 28 together, as shown in FIGS. 2-4.

The upper cross members 56 and lower cross members 58 interconnect thetwo second energy absorbing devices 28 to the seat bottom frame 20 andthe support 42 so that that the second energy absorbing devices 28 worktogether in a balanced fashion. This arrangement prevents twisting ofthe seat 10 when the second energy absorbing devices 28 are loaded.

The upper cross members 56 extend from the upper links 48 to the seatbottom frame 20 to couple the upper links 48 with the seat bottom frame20. The upper cross members 56 typically extend through the upper links48 and through the seat bottom frame 20 and each upper cross member 56is pivotally coupled to at least one of the upper link 48 and the seatbottom frame 20. The lower cross members 58 extend from the lower link50 to the support 42 to couple the lower link 50 to the support 42. Thelower cross members 58 typically extend through the lower link 50 andthrough the support 42 and each lower cross member 58 is pivotallycoupled to at least one of the lower link 50 and the support 42.

The second resilient member 40 is connected to and extends between thefirst and second pairs of links 34. Typically, the second resilientmember 40 extends from the joint 52 of the first pair of links 44 to thejoint 54 of the second pair of links 46. Alternatively, the secondresilient member 40 can be connected to the upper link 48 or the lowerlink 50 of the first and/or second pairs of links 34.

The second resilient member 40 is designed to maintain the seat bottomframe 20 in position relative to the support 42 until the force reachesthe second magnitude F2. In other words, in the absence of a force of asecond magnitude F2, e.g., from a blast, the seat bottom frame 20 doesnot move and supports the occupant without loading the second resilientmembers 40, as shown in FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 7, when the forcereaches or exceeds the second magnitude F2, the force overcomes thesecond resilient members 40 and begins to load the second resilientmembers 40. As the force overcomes the second resilient member 40, theseat bottom frame 20 moves relative to the support 42.

During a blast, force is transmitted through the seat 10 to the firstand second pair of links 46. This force urges the upper 48 and lower 50links to pivot about the joints, respectively. The second energyabsorbing device 28 is configured such that, if a force of the secondmagnitude F2 is applied to the seat 10, the force on the upper 48 andlower 50 links overcome the second resilient member 40 such that theupper 48 and lower 50 links pivot about the joints 52, 54, respectively.In other words, the upper 48 and lower 50 links move in a scissor-likemotion. The blast causes the first 44 and second 46 pair of links topull the second energy absorbing device 28 in tension.

The second energy absorbing device 28 resiliently moves when absorbingat least a portion of the force. As such, as the force resides, thesecond energy absorbing device 28 returns to a pre-force position. Inother words, the seat bottom frame 20 returns to a position that theseat bottom frame 20 had before the force was applied, i.e., as shown inFIG. 6.

The second energy absorbing device 28 extends between the first energyabsorbing device 26 and the third energy absorbing device 30. The secondenergy absorbing device 28 supports the first energy absorbing device26. Specifically, the second energy absorbing device 28 supports theseat bottom frame 20 so that the first energy absorbing device 26transmits a portion of the force to the second energy absorbing device28 when the force exceeds the first magnitude F1. In other words, thesecond energy absorbing device 28 acts as a foundation for the firstenergy absorbing device 26. As set forth above, when the magnitude ofthe force is less than the second magnitude F2, the second energyabsorbing device 28 remains deactivated and the seat bottom frame 20maintains position relative to the support 42, as shown in FIG. 6. Ifthe magnitude of the force loads the first energy absorbing device 26 tothe fully loaded state, i.e., a force greater than the second magnitudeF2, the first energy absorbing device 26 is unable to absorb additionalforce and instead transmits additional force to the second energyabsorbing device 28.

With reference again to FIGS. 2-4, the seat 10 includes a base 60 forconnecting to the vehicle 12. The base 60 is mounted to the vehicle 12,and particularly, for example, to a floor 62 of the vehicle 12.Alternatively or in addition, the base 60 can be mounted to another partof the vehicle 12 such as, for example, an interior side of the vehicle12.

With reference to FIG. 8, the third energy absorbing device 30 includesa cup 64 attached to one of the base 60 and the support 42 and a rod 66attached to the other of the base 60 and the support 42. For example, asshown in FIG. 8, the cup 64 is connected to the support 42 and the rod66 extends from the base 60 upwardly into the cup 64. The cup 64includes an interior wall 68 that defines a cavity 70 receiving the rod66. The rod 66 abuts the interior wall 68. The interior wall 68 caninclude protrusions 72 that extend into the cavity 70 and abut the rod66. The rod 66 tapers from the base 60 toward the protrusions 72.

The third energy absorbing device 30 is designed to maintain the support42 in position relative to the base 60 until the force reaches the thirdmagnitude F3. In other words, in the absence of a force of the thirdmagnitude F3, e.g., from a blast, the support 42 does not move andsupports the occupant, as shown in FIG. 7. The relative position of therod 66 and the cup 64 of FIG. 7 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 5A.When the force reaches or exceeds the third magnitude F3, the forceovercomes the third energy absorbing device 30. As the force overcomesthe third energy absorbing device 30, the support 42 moves toward thebase 60 as shown in FIG. 8. The relative position of the rod 66 and thecup 64 of FIG. 8 is shown in greater detail in FIG. 5B.

Specifically, when the force reaches the third magnitude F3, the rod 66is forced deeper into the cavity 70 and the rod 66 and/or theprotrusions 72 plastically deform to absorb at least a portion of theforce, as shown in FIG. 5B and FIG. 8. After the blast, the third energyabsorbing device 30 is typically replaced since the rod 66 and/or theprotrusions 72 are plastically deformed.

The rod 66 and the cup 64 are typically formed of steel. Alternatively,the rod 66 and cup 64 can be formed of any type of material suitable fordeform to absorb energy.

The third energy absorbing device 30 extends between the base 60 and thesecond energy absorbing device 28. The third energy absorbing device 30supports the second energy absorbing device 28. Specifically, the thirdenergy absorbing device 30 supports the support 42 so that the secondenergy absorbing device 28 transmits a portion of the force to the thirdenergy absorbing device 30 when the force exceeds the second magnitudeF2. In other words, the third energy absorbing device 30 acts as afoundation for the second energy absorbing device 28. As set forthabove, when the magnitude of the force is less than the third magnitudeF3, the third energy absorbing device 30 remains stationary and thesupport 42 maintains position relative to the base 60, as shown in FIG.7. If the magnitude of the force loads the second energy absorbingdevice 28 to the fully loaded state, i.e., a force greater than thethird magnitude F3, the second energy absorbing device 28 is unable toabsorb additional force and instead transmits additional force to thethird energy absorbing device 30.

The base 60 is typically mechanically fastened to the vehicle 12 withmechanical fasteners (not shown) such as, for example, threaded bolts sothat the base 60 can be easily replaced by merely unfastening themechanical fasteners. The base 60 defines a track 74 and the thirdenergy absorbing device 30, e.g., the rod 66, is slideably disposed inthe track 74. As such, a position of the seat 10 can be adjusted alongthe base 60.

With reference again to FIGS. 2-4, the seat 10 can include one or morebases 60 and one or more third energy absorbing devices 30. For example,in FIGS. 2-4, the seat 10 includes two bases 60 and four third energyabsorbing devices 30. Two third energy absorbing devices 30 are mountedto each base 60. In such a configuration, the multiple third energyabsorbing devices 30 evenly distribute the force to the second 28 andfirst 26 energy absorbing devices.

The bases support 42 the rest of the seat 10 in the vehicle 12 such thatthe seat 10 is modular, i.e., self contained. The entire seat 10 can beinstalled into or removed from the vehicle 12 by merely disconnectingthe bases 60 from the vehicle 12. This modular arrangement also allowsfor one or more seats 10 to be easily installed in various seatingconfigurations in the vehicle 12. In addition, the seat 10 can be easilyremoved from the vehicle 12 for replacement or service.

As set forth above, the blast may cause the vehicle 12 to becomeairborne, which results in an event called a “slam down” when thevehicle 12 lands. As shown in FIG. 2, the seat 10 can include aninflatable device 76 such as, for example, an airbag to cushion theoccupant on the slam down. In other words, the inflatable device 76increases the “ride down time.” As set forth above, the first 26 andsecond 28 energy absorbing devices are resilient and, as such, the first26 and second 28 energy absorbing devices can reset before the slamdown. The inflatable device 76 can aid the reset first 26 and second 28energy absorbing devices on slam down. The inflatable device 76 can alsoprovide the primary energy absorption in the event that the first and/orsecond energy absorbing device 28 do not reset before the slam down.

The inflatable device 76 can be, for example, disposed on the pan 32 ofthe seat bottom 14 and/or the seat back 16 and is configured toselectively inflate for cushioning between the occupant and the pan 32.The inflatable device 76 is configured to inflate when the vehicle 12 isairborne so that the inflatable device 76 can immediately absorb energywhen the vehicle 12 lands. The inflatable device 76 can also bepositioned on the pan 32 to prevent “submarining” of the occupant asdiscussed further below. The inflatable device 76 includes a bag that istypically formed of a shrapnel-resistant material such as, for example,Nomex and/or Kevlar.

The inflatable device 76 can include, for example, a computer (notshown) having a sensor for sensing the blast and inflating theinflatable device 76. The computer can be programmed such that, forexample, the inflation of the inflatable device 76 can be delayed sothat the inflatable device 76 does not interfere with the energyabsorption of the first 26, second 28, and third 30 energy absorbingdevices. After the initial delay, the inflatable device 76 is inflatedbefore the vehicle 12 lands. For example, the computer can be programmedsuch that the airbag inflates 25-150 milliseconds after the blast.

Alternatively, the computer can calculate the proper inflation delaybased on the details of the blast. In such a configuration, theinflatable device 76 includes sensors (not shown) for measuringcharacteristics such as location and magnitude of the blast. Based onthese measurements, the computer calculates the effect of the blast onthe vehicle 12 and instructs the airbag to inflate at a time when thevehicle 12 is calculated to be in the air.

With reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the seat 10 can include a footrest 78connected to the base 60 for supporting the feet of the occupant spacedfrom the floor 62 of the vehicle 12. The footrest 78 isolates theoccupant from the floor 62 of the vehicle 12. Such a configurationprevents force from being transferred from the floor 62 of the vehicle12 to the feet of the occupant.

With reference to FIG. 1, the seat 10 can include a seatbelt 80. FIG. 1shows a five-point seatbelt for exemplary purposes, but the seatbelt 80can be of any kind, such as, for example, a three-point seatbelt,without departing from the nature of the present invention. The seatbelt80 is self-contained on the seat 10. In other words, the seatbelt 80 isanchored to the seat 10, e.g., the seat back frame 18 and/or the seatbottom frame 20 thereby eliminating the need for anchoring the seatbelt80 to the vehicle body or floor 62. As such, as set forth above, theentire seat 10 can be installed into or removed from the vehicle 12 bymerely disconnecting the base 60 from the vehicle 12, i.e., without theneed for disconnecting the seatbelt 80 from the vehicle 12, so that theseat 10 is modular.

An anti-submarine feature 82 can be coupled to the seat bottom frame 20to provide resistance to “submarining” of the occupant during a blast,i.e., to prevent the occupant from moving forward on the seat bottom 14and sliding underneath the seatbelt 80. The anti-submarine featuretypically includes a thigh support 42 pivotally coupled to the seatbottom frame 20. In a scenario where the blast causes the occupant tomove forward and/or downwardly in the seat 10, force applied to thethigh support 42 by thighs of the occupant causes the thigh support 42to rotate to prevent further forward movement of the occupant.

FIGS. 1-8 show a first embodiment of the seat 10 and FIG. 9 showsanother embodiment of the seat 110. Features of this embodiment that aresimilar to features of the embodiment described above are identifiedwith the reference numeral used above preceded by a “1.” In theembodiment of FIG. 9, the seat bottom 114 and the seat back 116 eachinclude a plurality of pans 132. The pans 132 are rotated and/ortranslated when the first energy absorbing device 26 is activated. Theseat 10 of the second embodiment also includes an active head restraint84. The active head restraint 84 is typically pivotally coupled to theseat back frame 18. In the scenario where the occupant is pushed backinto the seat 10, e.g., during a blast, the active head restraint 84pivots forwardly toward the head of the occupant to reduce the whiplashof the occupant.

The second embodiment of the device, i.e., the platform 210, isdescribed in the following paragraphs. As set forth above, similarfeatures that perform common functions in the embodiment of FIGS. 1-8and the embodiment of FIGS. 10-18 are identified with common referencenumerals.

The platform 210 includes a pan 212 configured to support the standingoccupant 15 of the vehicle 12. The pan 212 can be of any size and shapesuitable for supporting the occupant 15. An energy absorbing mat (notshown) can be mounted to the pan 212 for supporting boots of theoccupant 15. The energy absorbing mat, for example, can have a honeycombconfiguration and can be resiliently deformable.

With reference to FIG. 10, the platform 210 is typically used to supportan occupant 15 that stands on the platform 210 and extends from thevehicle 12 to operate equipment, such as, for example, a firearm mountedon a turret 250. The turret 250 is typically rotatably mounted to thevehicle 12 and the occupant 15 typically grips the firearm and movesabout the platform 210. The occupant 15 can be connected to the turret250 and/or another part of the vehicle 12 with a gunner restraint system252. For example, the gunner restraint system 252 includes a harnessworn by the occupant 15 and connected to multiple points of contact ofthe turret 250 and/or another part of the vehicle 12.

The platform 210 can include the first energy absorbing device 26, thesecond energy absorbing device 28, and the third energy absorbing device30. With reference to FIGS. 11-14, the pan 212 is typically connected toa frame 220 with at least two links 34 that are each pivotally connectedto the frame 220 and the pan 212. The pan 212 in FIGS. 10-18, forexample, is connected to the frame 220 with four links 34. The firstresilient member 236 is disposed between the frame 220 and the pan 212to urge the pan 212 away from the frame 220. Any number of firstresilient members 236 can be disposed between the frame 220 and the pan212. As set forth above, the first resilient member 236 can be, forexample, a torsion spring (as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12), a coil spring,a hydraulic damper, a pneumatic damper, etc.

The first resilient member 236 is designed to maintain the pan 212 inposition relative to the frame 220 until the force reaches the firstmagnitude F1. In other words, in the absence of a force of the firstmagnitude F1, e.g., from a blast, the pan 212 does not move and supportsthe occupant without loading the first resilient member 236, as shown inFIG. 13. When the force reaches or exceeds the first magnitude F1, theforce overcomes the first resilient member 236 and begins to load thefirst resilient member 236. As the force overcomes the first resilientmember 236, the pan 212 moves relative to the frame 220, as shown inFIG. 14.

The first energy absorbing device 26, e.g., the first resilient members36, resiliently moves when absorbing at least a portion of the force. Assuch, as the force resides, the first energy absorbing device 26 returnsto a pre-force position. In other words, the pan 212 and the firstresilient member 236 return to a position that the pan 212 and the firstresilient member 236 had before the force was applied, i.e., theposition shown in FIG. 13.

With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the second energy absorbing device 28of the platform 210 can include a plurality of resilient members 214disposed between the upper cross members 56 and the lower cross members58. Specifically, each resilient member 214 extends between one uppercross member 56 and one lower cross member 58. With reference to FIG.15, the resilient members 214 resiliently compress between the frame 220and support 242 when subjected to a force at or above the secondmagnitude F2. In some embodiments, the resilient members 214 areconfigured to quickly rebound in the direction of the blast to minimizethe effect of the blast on the occupant. In the alternative to theresilient members 214, the second energy absorbing device 28 of theplatform 210 can include the linkage 38 and the second resilient member40 operatively coupled to the linkage 38, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18.

The resilient members 214 are, for example, torsion leaf springs. Eachresilient member 214 includes a plurality of layered members 222, asshown in FIG. 12A. The layered members 222 are only shown in FIG. 12Aand are not shown in the remaining Figures merely for illustrativepurposes. The layered members 222 are nested with each other. Thelayered members 222 are retained together to operate together as a unitto resiliently compress when subjected to a load. The layered members222 are separate from each other, i.e., not fixed to each other, and canslide relative to each other when subjected to a load. The layeredmembers 222 can, for example, be banded together (not shown) to retainthe layered members 222 together as a unit. The figures show fourlayered members 222 and it should be appreciated that the resilientmembers 214 can include any number of layered members 222.

The resilient members 214 are U-shaped with two legs 224 spaced fromeach other that resiliently compress toward each other when subjected toa force at or above the second magnitude F2. The resilient members 214are typically metal, for example, steel.

The resilient members 214 include two fingers 226 that extendtransversely from the legs 224. One of the fingers 226 is retainedbetween the upper cross member 56 and the frame 220 and the other finger226 is retained between the lower cross member 58 and the support 242.The engagement of the finger 226 between the cross members 56 and theframe 220 and the engagement of the finger 226 between the cross member58 and the support 242 retains the resilient member 214 between theframe 220 and the support 242.

The resilient members 214 are arranged in a first row 228 and a secondrow 230. The first row 228 and the second row 230 shown in the Figuresinclude five resilient members 214. Alternatively, the first row 228 andthe second row 230 can have any number of resilient members 214. Thefirst row 228 and the second row 230 can have the same number ofresilient members 214 or, alternatively, can have different numbers ofresilient members 214. In the Figures, the first row 228 is a front rowand the second row 230 is a rear row. Alternatively, the rows can bepositioned in different areas, e.g., as side rows.

With reference to FIG. 11, a pin 232 extends from one of the frame 220and the support 242 and the other of the frame 220 and the support 242defines a slot 234 slideably receiving the pin 232. Specifically, thelower cross members 58 include the pin 232, i.e., a terminal end of thelower cross members 58. The frame 220 includes an extension 240 with theslot 234 defined in the extension 240. The extension 240 extends betweenthe frame 220 and the support 242 and, more specifically, from the frame220 to the support 242. As best shown in FIGS. 10-12, the platform 210includes four pins 232 and four corresponding slots 234, however, theplatform 210 can include any number of pins 232 and slots 234 withoutdeparting from the nature of the present invention.

The slot 234 extends along an axis S for limiting relative movement ofthe frame 220 and the support 242 along the axis S. The axis S of theslot 234 is vertical. As such, the slot 234 limits movement of the frame220 relative to the support 242 to a vertical movement when the secondenergy absorbing device 28 is activated in response to a force of thesecond magnitude F2.

As shown in FIG. 11, guides 238 extend from the support 242 and engagethe extension 240 for guiding the extension along the axis S. The guides238 define a track that receives the extension 240 as the extension 240moves along the axis S. The guides 238 shown in the figures are in theform of a plate. Alternatively, for example, the guides 238 can be pegs,slotted members, etc. In the alternative to the support 242 shown inFIGS. 10-16 and 18, the platform 210 can include the frame 20, as shownin FIG. 17.

With reference to FIG. 16, the third energy absorbing device 30 of theplatform 210 is identical to that described above with reference theseat 10. The third energy absorbing device 30 limits movement of thesupport 242 relative to the third energy absorbing device 30 along theaxis S, i.e., in a direction in parallel with axis S, and specificallylimits the support 242 to vertical movement. Specifically, the cup 64receives the rod 66 along the axis S, i.e., in a direction in parallelwith axis S, for limiting movement of the support 242 along the axis S.

As set forth above, the movement of the frame 220 relative to thesupport 242 is limited to movement along the axis S, and specifically islimited to vertical movement, during operation of the second energyabsorbing device 28. Since the movement of the frame 220 relative to thesupport 242 and movement of the support 242 relative to the third energyabsorbing device 30 are limited to movement along the axis S,specifically limited to vertical movement, the operational spacerequired by platform 210 in the vehicle 12 is reduced. Also, the secondenergy absorbing device 28 and third energy absorbing device 30 can beindependently tuned to vary the absorption of energy along the axis S.In addition, limiting the movement along the axis S assists inmaintaining the occupant 15 on the platform 210 during operation of thesecond 28 and third 30 energy absorbing devices is reduced.

As set forth above with respect to the seat 10, also with respect to theplatform 210, the first, second, and third energy absorbing devices 26,28, 30 shown in the Figures are exemplary and the first, second, andthird energy absorbing devices 26, 28, 30 can be of any type withoutdeparting from the nature of the present invention. The platform 210 caninclude one or any combination of two of the first, second, and thirdenergy absorbing devices 26, 28, 30 without departing from the nature ofthe present invention. The platform 210 can also include any number ofadditional energy absorbing devices in addition to the first, second,and third energy absorbing devices 26, 28, 30 without departing from thenature of the present invention. A manufacturer of the platform 210 canpick and choose any combination of the first, second, and third energyabsorbing devices 26, 28, 30 and any additional energy absorbing devicesbased on varying weight, cost, and performance criteria.

The invention has been described in an illustrative manner, and it is tobe understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to bein the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Manymodifications and variations of the present invention are possible inlight of the above teachings, and the invention may be practicedotherwise than as specifically described.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device for a vehicle to support an occupant ofthe vehicle and absorb a force between the occupant and the vehiclecreated by relative movement between the occupant and the vehicle, saiddevice comprising: a pan for supporting the occupant; a first energyabsorbing device coupled to said pan and configured to absorb at least aportion of the force when a magnitude of the force reaches a firstmagnitude; a second energy absorbing device configured to absorb atleast a portion of the force when the magnitude of the force reaches asecond magnitude greater than the first magnitude, said second energyabsorbing device supporting said first energy absorbing device so thatsaid first energy absorbing device transmits a portion of the force tosaid second energy absorbing device when the magnitude of the forcereaches the second magnitude; and a third energy absorbing devicesupporting said second energy absorbing device and configured to absorbat least a portion of the force when the force reaches a third magnitudegreater than the second magnitude; wherein said third energy absorbingdevice is configured to plastically deform to absorb at least a portionof the force when the force exceeds the third magnitude.
 2. The deviceas set forth in claim 1 further comprising a base for connecting to thevehicle with said third energy absorbing device supporting said secondenergy absorbing device on said base.
 3. The device as set forth inclaim 2 wherein said third energy absorbing device extends between saidbase and said second energy absorbing device and wherein said secondenergy absorbing device extends between said third energy absorbingdevice and said first energy absorbing device.
 4. The device as setforth in claim 1 wherein said second energy absorbing device extendsbetween said first energy absorbing device and said third energyabsorbing device.
 5. The device as set forth in claim 1 wherein saidthird energy absorbing device supports said second energy absorbingdevice so that said second energy absorbing device transmits a portionof the force to said third energy absorbing device when the forcereaches the third magnitude.
 6. The device as set forth in claim 1wherein said first energy absorbing device and said second energyabsorbing device each resiliently move when absorbing at least a portionof the force.
 7. The device as set forth in claim 1 further comprising aframe supporting said pan and wherein said first energy absorbing deviceincludes a first resilient member disposed between said frame and saidpan.
 8. The device as set forth in claim 7 further comprising a supportspaced from said frame with said second energy absorbing device coupledto said frame and said support.
 9. The device as set forth in claim 8wherein said second energy absorbing device includes a linkage coupledto said frame and said support and a second resilient member operativelycoupled to said linkage.
 10. The device as set forth in claim 8 furthercomprising a base for connection to the vehicle and a third energyabsorbing device supporting said support on said base.
 11. The device asset forth in claim 10 wherein said third energy absorbing device extendsfrom said base to said support and wherein said second energy absorbingdevice extends from said support to said frame.
 12. The device as setforth in claim 1 further comprising an inflatable device disposed onsaid pan and configured to selectively inflate for cushioning betweenthe occupant and said pan.
 13. A device for a vehicle to support anoccupant of a vehicle and absorb a force between the occupant and thevehicle created by relative movement between the occupant and thevehicle, said device comprising: a pan for supporting the occupant; afirst energy absorbing device coupled to said pan for absorbing at leasta portion of the force when the force reaches a first magnitude; asecond energy absorbing device for absorbing at least a portion of theforce when the force reaches a second magnitude greater than the firstmagnitude, said second energy absorbing device supporting said firstenergy absorbing device so that said first energy absorbing devicetransmits a portion of the force to said second energy absorbing devicewhen the force reaches the second magnitude; and a third energyabsorbing device supporting said second energy absorbing device forabsorbing at least a portion of the force from the second energyabsorbing device when the force reaches a third magnitude greater thanthe second magnitude; wherein said third energy absorbing device isconfigured to plastically deform to absorb at least a portion of theforce when the force exceeds the third magnitude.
 14. The device as setforth in claim 13 further comprising a frame supporting said pan andwherein said first energy absorbing device includes a first resilientmember disposed between said frame and said pan.
 15. The device as setforth in claim 14 further comprising a support spaced from said framewith said second energy absorbing device coupled to said frame and saidsupport.
 16. The device as set forth in claim 13 further comprising abase for connection to the vehicle with the third energy absorbingdevice supporting said support on said base.